Chief Executives meet with Secretaries to Encourage Closer Working

November 28, 2017

Developing stronger links between government departments and local government was high on the agenda at a recent meeting at Lagan Valley Island, Lisburn between Northern Ireland’s Permanent Secretaries and Council Chief Executives.

Among the many items for discussions was how the Programme for Government and Council initiatives could complement each other, particularly through community planning activities; the potential effect on Brexit on departmental and local government programmes as well as learning from each to develop best practice, innovation and joined up working.

Chair of Solace, Dr Theresa Donaldson, Chief Executive of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, said:

“Going forward, innovation and joined up public service, which support and work side by side with each other will be key to the successful completion of both local and regional projects.

“It is very encouraging that both strands of regional government are committed to working together to achieve better service delivery for all.” said Dr Donaldson.

Head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service, David Sterling, said: “Engagement between central and local government is vital in ensuring we’re as effective as we can be in delivering for the people we serve. Our public services are operating in a complex environment and it’s important we identify and use opportunities to share good practice and, where possible, coordinate efforts to address the needs of communities across Northern Ireland.”